On February 27 and 28, 2012, Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi talked over phone with Arab League (AL) Secretary General Nabil al-Arabi as well as his counterparts Mohammed Kamel Amr of Egypt, Saud al-Faisal of Saudi Arabia and Mourad Medelci of Algeria over the Syria issue.

Yang introduced China's relevant position and efforts, and stressed that on the Syria issue, China's starting point is to maintain peace and stability in Syria and the Middle East. Yang said it is an urgent task for the conflicting sides in Syria to halt violence immediately so as to start an inclusive political dialogue and discuss reform plans as soon as possible. The international community should create favorable conditions in this regard and provide humanitarian aid to Syria, said the Chinese minister. China attaches importance to the important role the Arab League has played on the issue and is willing to work with the Arab nations to promote a peaceful and proper settlement of the Syria issue, Yang added.

The Arab officials appreciated China for conducting timely communication with them on the Syria issue and hailed the long-standing friendly cooperation between China and Arab nations. The Arab officials noted they are willing to maintain communication and coordination with China, and hope to seek a peaceful and proper solution to the Syria issue at an early date.